After a couple of months, my relative reported that the softener appeared to be "running out" of capacity way before it should, resulting in hard water before the next regen. Upon investigating, I discovered that during the brine fill cycle, it would stop filling about 3/4 of the way through the cycle, due to the auto-shutoff float. When I was installing this, it never occurred to me that this could be a problem, as I've seen very little discussion on this in the forums. However, I obviously need to shorten the float rod. So here are my questions:

1. How in the world do you shorten this thing?! The info I've found on the web shows that most floats are attached by two rubber washers at the top of the rod that can be adjusted. Mine isn't like that - mine is attached with a permanent pin. The bottom appears to be glued firmly into the float.

2. Is there a recommended height the float should be at, or is any height ok as long as it is lower than the drain hole?

3. If anyone cares to comment on my settings, I'd appreciate the feedback.